GAYA ISLAND RESORT

Overview

There are few places as naturally breath-taking as the 5-star Gaya Island Resort in Borneo. Tucked away within the wild tendrils of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a protected marine reserve along Borneo’s Kota Kinabalu coastline, you’re guaranteed some of the most jaw-dropping scenery: crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs and sugary beaches with rare views of Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu. With the aim to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the resort has been built using locally sourced materials and features traditional Sabahan influences. Towering on stilts that peek out from the mangrove forest, many of the villas offer unparalleled views across the South China Sea and beyond. The lantern-lit Spa Village is the ultimate mind and body treat with traditional therapies and healing practices harnessing local ingredients from the surrounds. For those not content to simply relax and soak up the scenery, forest walks, snorkelling, meditation, and yoga classes will keep even the busiest entertained.

SEASON / PERIOD	PRICES (from)
JAN 2026	£1499pp
FEB 2026	£1469pp
MAR 2026	£1499pp
APR 2026	£1569pp
MAY 2026	£1569pp
JUNE 2026	£1569pp
JULY 2026	£1679pp
AUG 2026	£1739pp
SEP 2026	£1569pp
OCT 2026	£1569pp
NOV 2026	£1429pp
DEC 2026	£1569pp

At a Glance

Feature	Details
Location	Malohom Bay, Pulau Gaya, Sabah, Malaysia
Category	Luxury resort, island setting
Number of villas / suites	121 Hill Villas + Suites
Room size range	From ~47 m² for standard villas; ~188 m² for the two‑bedroom Suria Suite
Maximum occupancy	Standard villas up to 2 adults + 2 children (under 12) in some cases; Suria Suite up to 4 adults (or 5 persons)
Transfer time	Approximately 10‑minute speedboat ride from Jesselton Point (plus prior transfer to jetty)
Conservation/eco credentials	Marine centre, turtle rehabilitation, coral reef restoration, active sustainability programme
Signature dining venues	Feast Village, Omakase, Fisherman’s Cove, Pool Bar & Lounge, Tavajun Bay
Spa & Wellness	Spa Village Gaya Island – treatments inspired by indigenous Sabahan traditions
Conservation fee & child policy	Conservation fee applied by Sabah Parks (approx MYR 35 on first night + MYR 25 each subsequent night) for every guest including children. Children under 12 may stay in villa in some cases; additional charge applies.

Room Type

The accommodation at Gaya Island Resort emphasises tranquil rainforest and sea‑views, with each villa crafted using natural local materials, large verandahs and oversized bathtubs—creating an immersive blend of the island’s environment and luxury living.

Bayu Villa

Situated on a hillside amidst lush rainforest, these inviting villas offer a peaceful setting with leafy views ranging from the rainforest canopy to the tropical mangroves. Connecting rooms are available for families.

Size: ~47 m² (≈506 ft²)

Occupancy: 2 adults + up to 2 children (under 12)

View: Rainforest canopy / tropical mangroves

Canopy Villa

Set amongst a tropical mangrove on a gently sloping hillside, these villas offer a beautiful outlook and are walking distance from the resort’s pristine sandy beach, with a selection of rooms that are located closer to the resort’s main facilities.

Size: ~47 m²

Occupancy: 2 adults + up to 2 children

View: Mangrove / hillside near beach

Kinabalu Villa

With views stretching across the South China Sea, and where the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu can be seen on a clear day, these Kinabalu Villas provide the best views in the resort. Connecting rooms are available for families.

Size: ~47 m²

Occupancy: Typically 2 adults + up to 2 children

View: South China Sea + Mount Kinabalu silhouette

Suria Suite

This luxurious two-bedroom suite lies on the hillside with stunning ocean views. The ground floor features relaxing lounge and dining areas, and a pantry which leads onto an outdoor deck. The spacious bedrooms on the first floor both come with en-suites and a decadent outdoor bath on the balcony provides breathtaking views.

Size: ~188 m² (≈2,023 ft²)

Occupancy: Up to 4 adults + possibly 1 child

View: Panoramic ocean view / hillside location

Dining

Gaya Island Resort delivers a varied and elevated dining portfolio—from lively all‑day buffets to sunset seafood fine dining and a hidden private‑beach lunch venue.

Feast Village

Savour a vibrant, interactive dining experience that offers diverse cuisine from the Asia-Pacific region. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the dynamic open kitchens showcase a bakery, Japanese/Korean, Asian and Western selections. The location by the lap pool offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding beach.

Fisherman's Cove

Situated on the rooftop with a breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu, Fisherman’s Cove features a unique symphony of seafood themed dishes crafted by Chef Wai, the pioneer of this locally and internationally acclaimed restaurant, which focuses on sustainable fishing practices and the freshest ingredients. The seaside restaurant welcomes children aged 12 years and above for the comfort of all our guests. Dress code for adults is resort smart casual.

Omakase

Surrounded by an ancient rainforest, this two-storey Japanese restaurant is perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Three Japanese omakase-style dining experiences are available under one roof ranging from teppanyaki, shabu-shabu and nabe. These heart-warming dinners will delight guests of all ages.

Pool bar & Lounge

Overlooking the resort’s tranquil infinity pool and floating cabanas, the Pool Bar & Lounge with its al fresco location and natural light is the perfect place to relax after a swim or relish a casual lunch. In the evenings, enjoy sundowners and light refreshments as the sun sets over Mount Kinabalu.

Tavajun Bay

A short 5-minute boat ride from the resort, this tranquil private beach is perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun, lulled by a gentle sea breeze. Infused by local and international influences, lunch is a single dish meal made over charcoal embers which changes daily. Alternatively, simply pre-order a personalised gourmet picnic basket.

SPA

At the heart of the resort’s wellness offering is the Spa Village Gaya Island—a secluded sanctuary set within the mangrove forest and perched above the shoreline. With six treatment pavilions, outdoor decks, guided yoga and meditation sessions, and therapies inspired by the indigenous healing traditions of Sabah (Kadazan, Bajau sea‑nomads), it presents a holistic island‑wellness experience.
Additional facilities include a fully‑equipped fitness centre, infinity pool with floating cabanas and guided nature‑walks or snorkelling led by resident naturalist/biologist.